Tech & Tools

Screen Readers Help Blind Computer Users

2008-07-03T16:57:00Z

Screen reader software for use by blind users has been around for quite a while. Programs like JAWS for Windows convert graphics and text on a screen to audible speech. They offer some keyboard shortcuts, reducing the need for a mouse.

They have helped blind people use a computer when previously they could not, but these programs have limitations. They can be expensive. They have to be installed on any computer the person wants to use. If you are at your friend's house or the library and you want to search the Web or check your e-mail, you can't easily do that. Additionally, most screen readers don't tell the user where a mouse pointer is on the screen.

What if a person could sit down at any computer in the world and within a few seconds be able to search the Internet without having to install new software first? This would be revolutionary! Well, let the revolution begin. IBM, in conjunction with Washington University, has just released WebAnywhere.

WebAnywhere is not platform specific. Use a PC or Mac. It doesn't care. Internet Explorer? Mozilla? AOL? This utility is friendly to them all. Want to surf while shopping at a store? Pull out your phone and log onto WebAnywhere. The Web site will run on most smartphones.

Log on as you would any other site. A "welcome" page pops up and is read aloud. Use this page as a launching pad, just as you might use AOL. WebAnywhere provides you with an address bar to type URLs or keywords. Each new page will be spoken, with links or other elements presented top to bottom and left to right. It's as simple as that! Don't want to waste time on a particular link or page? Skip around using the customizable shortcut keys. Text typed by the user is also spoken aloud. Page changes due to that input aren't a problem. It easily reads the new content.

These days users of speech-enabled programs, such as screen readers, are used to hearing pleasant voices. One potential problem with WebAnywhere is that it uses the robotic-sounding voice that was standard fare years ago. Sometimes that voice can be slow and difficult to understand. While some Web sites provide users with more pleasant-sounding voiceovers, usually it's difficult to access the feature, and only a limited percentage of the content is accessible in this manner.

As with other screen readers, WebAnywhere can be beneficial to people with dyslexia or learning disabilities. Because they read the text on the screen, users can avoid problems associated with word confusion.

Finally, Web developers can also benefit from WebAnywhere. If a developer is trying to create a new Web site or Web-based application with accessibility features, having a readily-available screen-reading program can help him understand where users might have difficulties.

Don't believe me? Check out the WebAim simulation to see how difficult it can be for a blind user to access your Website using a screen reader. Developers might include code that directs their application to interact with a "Talklet" server. Each page would be read, but users could not interact with or manipulate it.

Iron Men May Help Those with Disabilities

2008-07-01T00:29:00Z

For years U.S military contractors have been trying to develop an exoskeleton that would allow soldiers to carry greater amounts of equipment and weaponry. Three years ago the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), a part of the United States Department of Defense, funded the development of a prototype, the Bleex 1. The suit gave soldiers the capability to carry an extra 70 pounds of equipment. But, power was limited to a mere 15 minutes, and soldiers could only move six feet per second. Engineers say that the next phase of development, Bleex 2, will be a vast improvement.

In the consumer market, things move a bit quicker. Two exoskeletons are about to hit the proverbial street. Neither will have the repulsor rays or flight capability of the comic book character Ironman. However, both will give their wearer strength and endurance benefits that will help in the performance of daily tasks. Moreover, both should help people with mobility impairments lead better lives.

Steve Jacobsen and the engineers at Raytheon Sarcos Incorporated have developed the XOS exoskeleton. The machine is in many ways more complex than the human body. We use electrical impulses, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and joints to move. The XOS has to mimic those in a way that will not put excessive strain on the relatively fragile human user. Sensors attached to the user's body send electrical signals to a central computer to detect force of movement. Much like our brain, the computer controls impulses sent to a series of valves, actuators, cables and joints to perform the actual movement. The sensors monitor the user's movements at a rate of thousands of times per second, then amplify his strength as needed to perform a given task.

It may be somewhat unnerving to learn that Cyberdyne Corporation, from the Terminator movies, is a real company. Furthermore, its engineers really do build robots. But fear not. These are not autonomous devices bent on taking over the world.

Operating for a maximum of five hours on a single battery charge, the company's HAL (Hybrid Assistive Limb) exoskeleton is an extension of the human body. It works in a similar way to the XOS. Sensing electrical impulses from muscles, a computer activates corresponding servos of the suit, causing motors to mimic a wearer's motions. But, it does more than that.

The amount of assistance the suit provides is adjustable and depends on the strength of the person using it. The weaker the person, the more assistance is given. In this way, this device may be able to help those with mobility impairments. There are real applications for physical therapy and strength training. Furthermore, because of its movement and strength-augmenting abilities, people with mobility impairments might find they can do more once they don the suit.

The company is betting on this and marketing to health care workers, hospitals, and people with disabilities. By the end of 2008, Cyberdyne hopes to be producing 500 suits per year. These will be leased to medical institutions and nursing homes. If you'd like one of your own, you can have it for about $40,000.

Finally, there are several other agencies attempting to develop exoskeletons to assist people with disabilities. These include Berkeley Bionics' Exoskeleton Orthotic Systems and the University of Michigan's Ankle Exoskeleton, and Argo Medical Technologies' ReWalk.

Prosthetic Limbs: Buying for Your Needs Without Getting Scammed

2008-06-23T23:14:00Z

As a result of the ongoing war and the increase in automobile accidents, more and more people find themselves in need of prosthetic limbs. The problem is so prevalent that you can actually find artificial extremities being sold on eBay. Although you are sure to find a bargain looking for limbs online, there are a lot of things to consider when purchasing, picking out or being fitted for a prosthetic limb.

The most important thing to consider is your lifestyle. How active are you? What type of sports do you like? How often do you go for a brisk walk or jog? Your ideal limb will be created with you in mind. So, you shouldn't end up with an artificial limb that was created for cosmetic purposes if you enjoy rock climbing. Remember this brace has to be tough enough to handle your life each and every day. Initially most people new to the world of prosthetics tend to look for limbs that are more cosmetic in nature. And, that's fine if you are not very active or you have more than one prosthetic limb. This is so important that you should make sure that everyone involved with the creation of your limbs knows exactly what you plan to do in them. They need to know the physical demands of your daily routine, as well as your physical hobbies.

What type of prosthetic do you want? There are a few major categories that prosthetics typically fall in cosmetic, body powered, externally powered, and adaptive. Each type comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Cosmetic limbs lack the functionality of the others; however, these limbs are designed to look like you actual limbs. Body powered limbs are those with movements that are a reaction to some bodily action of yours. Body powered prosthetics generally have some type of harness or fit snugly. Externally powered are typically controlled by a battery or other electric force. Adaptive limbs are designed for specific activities. Externally powered and adaptive prosthetics are the most functional. However, they are also the most expensive.

Another issue or concern should be your current size and foreseeable changes in your weight and/or height. This is especially important of your children who are still growing. Prosthetics are usually meant to fit rather snugly; so, increase in weight can cause serious problems. Weight gains that may seem insignificant, common, or normal for others may cut off your circulation; cause your brace to not fit correctly; or, prevent you from manipulating your artificial limbs with the ease you were once accustomed. How much weight can you gain or lose and still control the limb easily? Is there any way for the limb to accommodate any weight gain? You may be wondering why height was included. Well, you don't want to end up with one arm or leg longer than the other. Foreseeable changes should be planned out. For example, if you or your child is still in the developing years, you may want to start putting money away for the next brace. You can also see what options are out there for the type of limb needed.

It is actually a tough topic to discuss, but it is important to consider the money. There is no need to sugar coat the fact that artificial limbs are not cheap. We are talking thousands of dollars, and in most cases up into the tens of thousands of dollars. Fortunately, for some, you may live in a state that prevents insurance companies to capping the limits that they will pay out for braces. If you are in a state with insurance caps, you will find that getting the money is much harder. Unless, you acquired your disability while in the military, then you should have better luck gaining financial assistance. Government assistance is available if you are within the allotted income, which varies by state. However, you will find that the income level for assistance is ridiculously low. So, if you hold down a full-time jobs, odds are good you have surpassed it.

Even though eBay may be the cheaper option. Buying an artificial limb that was created for someone else is pretty risky. Remember your new limb must be able to handle your life, not built for someone else's.

The Dynamics of a Wheelchair Purchasing for the Lou Gehrig's Patient

2008-06-23T17:26:00Z

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a progressive disease that often leaves the sufferer unable to perform activities of daily living. As a disorder that complicates the quality of life for the sufferer, those diagnosed with Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis often face great challenges when working through the financial and medical issues that face them in the years to come.

ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder believed to be attributed to a complication involving either chromosome 21, may be attributed to an autoimmune complication or may be related to a toxic effect. With so many theories about the cause and origin, ALS researches continued to be stumped by the profound impact this disease has on the life of the patient. As an "all encompassing" term, ALS is most commonly attached to complications involving both inherited and acquired motor neuron diseases.

As there is no effective treatment for ALS, the individual who suffers from Lou Gehrig's disease is often left with only those options used to slow progression, manage symptoms and complications and find ways in which to improve the quality of life.

As part of the management of the quality of life in the ALS patient, there will come a time when the use of a wheelchair may be necessary. The timing of wheelchair use, of course, will not be the same for every ALS patient. As a result, each patient will need to discuss the dynamics and impact a wheelchair can provide in restoring quality of life. For most occupational therapists, the rule of thumb lies in the loss of mobility in the patient. This is to say, if the ALS patient is losing the ability to engage in activities once enjoyed, a wheelchair may be able to restore the mobility lost.

With DME supply corners on virtually every street corner in the United States, it may seem a rather simple task to go out and purchase a wheelchair. But, finding the right wheelchair is far more important. So, before making this costly purchase, you will want to consult with your occupational therapist and outline the essential items you will need to make the wheelchair comfortable, efficient and offer the best options for improving your mobility.

Issues to be addressed before purchasing your wheelchair, as an ALS patient, will involve the frequency of use, whether you plan to use the wheelchair indoors and outdoors, what, if any, additional health complications you may be experiencing (such as skin disorders) and issues involving your weight and height as well as an assessment of the home you live in to be certain the door frames and flooring are equipped to handle wheelchair access.

Because ALS often leads to decrease range of motion, you may need a wheelchair that provides a greater flexibility in moving from manual use to power use. The tilt chair is also necessary to assist in mobility and to alleviate pressure from the buttocks, which often leads to skin disruption and breakdown.

Other issues to consider involve the wheelchair wheel size, the movement of the arm rests and even the power and charge capacity of the wheelchair battery. As you can see, simply purchasing a wheelchair at a local DME supply store may not be in your best interest.

After meeting with your occupational therapist, a description of your wheelchair specifications should be well outlined. You can use this spec form when visiting the DME supply store as this will provide the wheelchair sales staff with the best guide to providing the perfect wheelchair for your needs.

While timing of a wheelchair purchase will vary from one ALS patient to another, so will the specifications of the wheelchair purchase. Before going to a DME supply store, meet with your occupational therapist to work through the wheelchair dynamics and specifications you will find most beneficial to your needs and to your health. In doing so, you can increase your mobility and improve your quality of life as an ALS patient.

Original article by Christine Cadena, published on Jul 17, 2007.

Tetra Society: Innovative Solutions for Independence

2008-06-18T17:41:00Z

Never underestimate the solutions that a group of dedicated volunteers can develop to improve the lives of people with disabilities. Take, for instance, 8-year-old Kyle Sorensen II, who became a high-level quadriplegic from a car accident. Volunteer engineers from the Tetra Society designed a unique sip ‘n’ puff controller that enables Kyle to play with an electric train set.

“Puffing into the controller moves the train forward,” explains Kent Redmund, who just last year agreed to head a new Salt Lake City Tetra Society chapter for a group of engineers from Autonomous Solutions. Additional puffs make the train move progressively faster. A sip slows it down, or backs it up if it’s at rest.

The project was a win-win situation for everyone involved.

“Kyle gets to interact and play with his friends, and we get the satisfaction of knowing we’ve been able to use our skills to make a difference in someone’s life,” says Kent.

The Utah chapter is just one of over 45 Tetra Society chapters throughout North America dedicated to improving the quality of life for people with disabilities. Founded in 1992 by Sam Sullivan, a frustrated quadriplegic who yearned for more independence, last year Tetra Society volunteers created over 300 solutions to challenges faced by people with disabilities. Volunteers provide their services free of charge. Sometimes a materials fee is involved, but more often than not, local businesses donate the supplies.

While engineers and physical or occupational therapists make up many of the chapter members, people with all sorts of skills contribute to the organization. Projects range from the more spectacular recreational devices, such as sit skis or bicycles, to cell phone or cup holders that improve independence with activities of daily living.

“Sometimes the challenge for a person with a disability is how to brush one’s teeth or hold a cell phone,” explains National Program Director Pat Tweedie. “A more unique challenge was helping a boy with progeria—a disease that produces rapid aging—play recorder. The volunteers put extensions on the recorder so that the boy could play music with his classmates.”

The possible challenges—and solutions—are as endless as the unique individuals who ask for assistance: a cello bow guide; a sewing machine arm; a foot strap that enables a bocce ball enthusiast to play in the local league; an electronic easel; and a larger-than-average tandem bike seat are just a few of the projects that volunteers happily addressed. A nonprofit organization, the Tetra Society only makes assistive devices that aren’t available in the marketplace. And if they can’t come up with a solution, the Tetra Society refers people to other resources.

The Tetra Society is always looking for more people to assist as well as skilled volunteers to serve them. Just recently, Lana Zotman, who became disabled from working at a computer, started a new chapter in San Francisco. She and her engineer husband look forward to helping people identify how their lives can be improved and coming up with solutions.

“In many cases, people don’t know what they need, and their independence diminishes,” says Lana. “I feel it’s important to help people become less dependent and increase their quality of life.”

For more information, visit www.tetrasociety.org.

Everyday Technology for Your Disability

2008-06-13T20:02:00Z

Technology and disability may be linked, but technology doesn't always catch up to the needs of people with disabilities. Cell phones are a great example. Manufacturers of these handy devices only recently added features that allow easier access to people with poor vision.

What about MP3 players? None of them provide verbal cues for menu options, album or song selections. Moreover, the controls are so small that anyone with a dexterity issue has difficulty operating them. These are only two devices that are either difficult or impossible for people with disabilities to use; there are many others. A huge market awaits manufacturers that can provide alternate (enabling) means of interacting with these devices. Those alternatives are coming.

My cousin is a quadriplegic who has limited use of his arms and virtually no use of his fingers. All his electronic devices have been jury-rigged to allow him to grip and use them more easily. I recently discovered a television remote control that he could operate by voice alone.

TV/Cable Remote Control
The Surfboard Voice Activated Remote Control was developed for those with difficulty seeing or pressing buttons. With it, you can control all the basic functions on your television, cable box, or satellite (power, volume control, channel selection) by issuing a few simple voice commands. Up to 12 commands can be stored in the Surfboard's memory. Press the "Help" button. A voice will guide you through set-up instructions. It has a "learn" feature that allows the device to mimic the functions of the remote(s) that came with your video device.

Music/MP3 Players
“Wink your eye if you like this device, or if you want to hear a song.” Music players are all the rage in today's society. Almost everyone seems to be listening to one as they walk down the street. The trouble is that touch screens, tiny buttons, and lack of voice control make these devices difficult to use. Well, there is a solution coming, at least for those with mobility impairments.

A student at Osaka University's Graduate School of Engineering Science is trying to perfect something he calls a "Temple Switch." The device uses infrared sensors to monitor skin movements around the eye. Those movements are translated into electronic commands to control a music player. Wink the right eye to skip to the next song. Close both eyes to pause or play your music. The device is still two or three years from consumer production, but the long-term goal is to be able to use this technology to control other devices as well.

GPS Navigation System
Now that you turned off your television and switched on your iPod, let's go outside. It's a good thing your brother bought you that GPS for your birthday. But wait a minute. To use those things you need to be able to see the screen and use your fingers to type in your destination, or do you? Navstar Technologies humbly disagrees. Their new VoiceNavigator allows you use your voice instead of your fingers to ask for directions to a destination and get verbal replies. With this device, you can plan a trip in advance, or let whimsy guide your steps.

Small-Talk Ultra: A Review of the PC for People with Visual Impairments

2008-06-03T23:42:00Z

The Small-Talk Ultra is a technology device that students, professionals and other people with vision impairments need. This device is more than just a talking notetaker or a talking PDA, it is a full featured personal computer that will do everything that you need to do from surfing the web to utilizing high end software products. Its design makes it the perfect assistive adaptive equipment technology for the 21st century.

Product Description of the Small-Talk Ultra
The Small-Talk Ultra weighs in at less than a pound and has dimensions of 5.6 inches by 3.3 inches by 1.0 inch. It has a 1.5 GHz VIA C7M ULV processor and works on the Windows Vista Business operating system. If you prefer to upgrade your OS to Ultimate, then you can, however, this will raise the base price of this unit which is about $2,650. The hard drive for this talking computer is 60 GB, it has a 1 GB DDR2 SDRAW memory and it utilizes numerous graphic processors including a VIA VX700 with integrated GPU, an external display support for VGA and DVI monitors up to 1920 X 1200 resolution. Finally, this device is Bluetooth ready.

There are several ways to input data into this computer. First of all it has an 88 key keyboard with an embedded numeric keypad and 12 function keys. It can also be operated using its thumb keyboard which has 18 function keys and 58 regular keys. This device also accepts data via smart modifier keys and TrackStik pointing devices.

For people with visual impairments the audio features of the Small-Talk Ultra will be important. First of all this unit is AC97 sound system compatible, it has both an internal speaker and an internal microphone. It also has HD audio support. If you don't want to disturb the people around you while you are working with your computer then you can also use a one line in/line out port for a 3.5 mm headphone. Finally, the Small-Talk Ultra comes with Windows Eyes, which is a software program that reads the screen for you.

Why This Product is Cool
This is one of the coolest products that I have seen in a while. First of all, the design of this device makes it very portable so you can take it with you where ever you go without it being cumbersome. You can easily slip the device and its protective carrying case into your briefcase, backpack or purse, so you have it when you are in class, at work, at a meeting or traveling. Next, I love the power and versatility that this device offers.

While it is the size of a simple talking note taker, it offers you all the functions that you need for modern life including taking notes, surfing the internet, composing documents, playing movies, listening to music or running software programs. Finally, this product provides you with the adaptive devices and a docking station that you need to make using this technology easy to do.

Similar Products on the Market
The closest product on the market that compares with the Small-Talk Ultra is the Samsung Q1 Ultra Mobile Personal Computer. This full featured ultra personal computer weighs in at 1.5 pounds, and offers 1 GB of memory and processors that run between 600 and 800 MHz. This product has many of the same specs as the Small-Talk Ultra, however, it doesn't come with Windows Eyes. The Q1 Ultra starts around $799 for the base model. Prices will naturally increase as you add on memory and increase processor spead.

Alternative Wheelchairs That Help You Enjoy the Outdoors

2008-06-02T22:09:00Z

The weather is getting warmer. People are taking their activities outdoors. My brother likes to go hiking. My mother goes to the beach. I can't go along with either one of them, at least not easily. Since 1991, I have used a manual wheelchair to navigate through the world. Rough terrain and sand don't get along well with wheels. Fortunately, over the past few years, a wide variety of options have opened up to the wheelchair user. Many of them, though perhaps a little odd looking, have allowed people in my position more ability to explore the world.

I started writing about off-road wheelchair racing back in 2005. Back then the sport and the type of wheelchair that allowed people to participate in it were both in the early stages of development. Today, off-road wheelchair racers speed down mountains and swish through slalom courses the world over.

Times have changed. New materials and designs have made wheelchairs tougher. The evolution was inevitable. Wheelchairs have been called into service on many different terrains. As an example, take a look at the latest off-road hotrod, Grove Innovation's DH-X1 (www.sitski.com/dhx1.htm). To the untrained eye this beauty may not look like much, but it's been put through its paces by world champions like Scott Wilson. Wilson won gold in one at the NORBA World Cup Amateur Down Hill.

What if you wanted to don a swimsuit and hit the beach? A few years ago that might have seemed to be an impossibility. But as more and more wheelchair users have demanded access to our nation's shores, manufacturers have strived to meet the challenge of sand vs. wheel. One interesting model of beach wheelchair, the De-Bug, comes from Deming Designs Inc. (www.beachwheelchair.com/index.html). This chair features large, balloon-style wheels that allow maneuverability on the softest sand, castered rear wheels for easy steering, and an articulated suspension system that will keep you riding comfortably. And, perhaps best of all, you don't have to rely on a friend or relative to get you where you want to go. It's self-propelled (or should I say muscle powered?).

For those who relish the outdoors, there is the aptly named Tank Chair (www.tankchair.com). Instead of wheels, this funny looking chair is outfitted with the kind of tracks normally found on military tanks. Designed by Brad Soden as a means to allow his wife to continue enjoying the camping trips that were a family tradition, this behemoth of a power chair goes everywhere. Now in its second generation, users can take advantage of its two-horsepower, 127 rpm motor. With that kind of power, as you sit in the luxuriously cushioned seat, almost no hill or terrain is insurmountable.

With all these different wheelchair designs, not only will you be sitting pretty, but you'll also discover that the natural world has moved ever closer to being completely accessible. Now, if the man-made world would just follow suit, we'd all lead better, fuller lives.

Assistive Technology Product Evaluators Needed

2008-05-30T22:02:00Z

The Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) is currently recruiting participants with mobility disabilities for product evaluations to be conducted on the Georgia Tech campus in Atlanta.

During a product evaluation we will first discuss any difficulty that you might have had in the past using similar products to the product under evaluation. We introduce the product and walk you through the procedure of using the product. This procedure allows us to collect detailed evaluation data that will help us to determine if a product is truly easy to use. The evaluation results are sent back to the manufacturer of the product so they can make design improvements if they are needed.

We test a wide variety of consumer products that you would find in the home or office. Each evaluation will take about 1 or 2 hours to complete. Participants will be paid for their participation.

If you have a mobility disability and would like to participate in a product evaluation at Georgia Tech please contact Liz Weldon at 404-407-8438 or email her at elizabeth.weldon@gtri.gatech.edu. Liz will ask you a few questions and then add you to our participant list. We try to match the products we test to the interests and the abilities of our participants. If we have a product that we think you might be interested in testing, we will contact you to see if you are available. Adding your name to the participant list does not represent any sort of obligation on your part.

Adaptive Equipment Makes Photography Easier For Those with Disabilities

2008-05-20T16:32:00Z

My father was a true artist. Whether with a brush or a camera, he loved to capture the world as he saw it. He had a natural instinct for framing a composition. When taking a picture he often would say he didn’t really need to develop the film. What was important was how the image was composed. His camera had to allow him to create the image he wanted; there was nothing automatic about the model he used.

In his later years my father developed Parkinson's disease, which made holding a camera and snapping the shutter difficult. I sit in a wheelchair. I know that sometimes it is difficult for me to keep the camera steady while framing a shot. My father went through similar problems. While he was alive, I wish we had both known about the many pieces of adaptive photography equipment currently available.

Fortunately, finding ways for the photographer with a disability to cope is fairly easy. Several companies have developed devices that clamp tightly onto the frame of a wheelchair and allow a camera to be positioned for a clear, steady image. Some of these devices are the Laird VGO (www.lairdtelemedia.com), Symmetric Designs’ Camera Mount (www.symmetric-designs.com), and Orcca Technology Incorporated’s Camera Mounting System (www.orcca.com).

Today's cameras are small, as are their control buttons. If you have poor dexterity or gripping ability, these cameras can be a problem. There are solutions. The Gentle-ed IR Remote Control (www.gentles.ltd.uk) is a shutter release extension that uses the infrared wireless control found on many newer cameras to trigger the shutter. Conceptus (www.conceptusinc.com), an Arizona-based company, makes switches for skydiving photographers. The best of these is called the Bite Switch; it’s perfect for those with limited arm/hand mobility. As its name implies, users bite down on it to operate the camera shutter.

Finally—and this may be a surprise to you—even those who have very poor or no eyesight can be photographers. I remember when I was a staff writer for a disability lifestyle magazine; one of the frequent contributors was a blind photographer. One advantage of today's digital cameras is their large LED viewscreens. For someone with low vision, the larger the screen the better.

But for those people who are completely blind and still want to take photographs, the best advice I can give you is to rely on your intact senses. For instance, when taking a picture of a sunrise, one would face the East and let the rays of the sun warm your face while pointing the camera in that direction. If you want a candid picture of people, listen to the direction of their voices. If your ears are sharp enough, you can even tell how far away from you they are; then a flick of your finger can adjust the camera’s zoom.

If you have questions about becoming a photographer, and you have a disability, the best place to receive valuable information is a worldwide organization called The Disabled Photographers Society (www.disabledphotographers.co.uk).

Neurostimulation Devices Help Those Suffering From Chronic Pain

2008-05-16T18:20:00Z

Star Trek’s Borg have them. The Bionic Woman has them. They are computerized devices implanted into the brain. They don’t give super-human strength or the ability to see a flea a mile away in real life. But they’re not science fiction either. Currently devices either restore some degree of function to a disabled body or deliver medication when other methods of delivery prove ineffective.

I’ve had a daily mind-numbing headache for the past seven years. I’ve tried pills and radiation therapy. Yesterday a new doctor recommended implanting a neurostimulation device into my head; he said it would disrupt the “bad” impulses being fed by my nerves.

Neurostimulation devices, such as the one developed in the 1960s by Medtronics Inc. (www.medtronic.com) look like pacemakers that are implanted in the heart. They act like the TENS units that physical therapists use on sore muscles, delivering low voltage electrical impulses to block pain. They are prescribed for patients like me, who have suffered from chronic, intractable pain that hasn’t been treated effectively by other means.

Other forms of implantable devices help to restore function taken away by disease or accident.

In 2003 Brown University (www.neuroscience.brown.edu) and Cyberkinetics Neurotechnology Systems Inc. (www.cyberkineticsinc.com) began work on a device called Braingate. The computer chip monitors brain activity, searching for electrical impulses traveling on neurons, which it converts into computer commands to control either a mechanical arm or a cursor on a monitor. One of the first people to use the chip was Matthew Nagle, a quadriplegic. After the surgery, Nagle was able to control a computer mouse cursor to switch on and off several home devices.

Implanted computer devices can also help restore sight to the visually impaired. Two types of devices are currently being developed: Epiretinal Implants (on the retina) and Subretinal Implants (behind the retina).

First developed in the 60s, Epiretinal Implants, such as the one being developed by The Dobelle Institute (www.artificialvision.com) bypass the eye and work in conjunction with an external camera to send electronic data wirelessly to the brain’s visual cortex.

Subretinal computer chips, such as the Artificial Silicon Retina being developed by Optobionics (www.optobionics.com), on the other hand, convert light into photoelectrical impulses to stimulate the cells of the retina.

If you have a problem speaking, there may be a brain implant that can help you too. Dr. Philip R. Kennedy, a neuroscientist currently working at Emory University (www.emory.edu) is developing a brain-implantable electrode that will allow those without speech to be able to communicate through a computer interface. The electrode is placed in the motor cortex. Brain cells form contacts with the cells, a process that takes several weeks. Neurons in the brain can then transmit an electronic signal when they "fire." The signals are transmitted through wires to an external receiver and amplifier.

Finally, it isn’t difficult to understand that all of these implants work better as improvements are made in computer software. In their first clinical trial of an epiretinal device, scientists in Bonn, Germany, discovered that implants designed to aid vision are virtually useless without improvements in software to interpret the electronic signals traveling to the visual cortex. Their first patients could not identify simple shapes. They’re trying to solve the problem by developing software that learns what kinds of signals the brain can identify and interpret.

Voice Recognition Programs Help People Speak

2008-05-12T18:06:00Z

I learned how to type when I was in high school. I remember sitting in the classroom wondering why I needed to learn this “important” skill. But the truth is, as I grew older and my educational challenges increased, I found myself pounding on the keyboard more and more. To this day, despite the best efforts of that long-forgotten teacher in high school, I often make spelling errors. And, I still hunt and peck on the keyboard. Spell checkers have helped the first problem. Voice recognition software has virtually eliminated the second.

Voice recognition software converts spoken words into text or computer control commands. There are many people for whom it is a boon. Typing-challenged people like me and those who have upper-extremity impairments all benefit. But perhaps the biggest group to benefit from this technology is people who experience communication disorders.

Because voice recognition software incorporates a "training" phase, people who have hearing deficits, as well as those who stutter, have dyslexia or aphasia, or mumble can be helped. While the obvious objective of training is to instruct the computer to understand the user (and this is an important part of the process), at the same time the user is getting trained—practicing his or her speaking and getting immediate feedback from an impartial judge. The more attention given to how words and phrases are pronounced, the better they will be interpreted by the software. Ultimately the ability to communicate will also improve.

People with aphasia have difficulty recalling words and formulating sentences. The National Institutes of Health (www.nih.gov), MossRehab (http://www.einstein.edu/yourhealth/physicalrehab) and Unisys Corporation (www.unisys.com/index.htm) have joined together to help. They’re developing a language therapy system that uses computers equipped with audio-visual feedback and voice recognition software. Through the project, people with aphasia are rebuilding their language skills.

Another group based in Hungary (http://www.technology-market.eu), has developed a software package that helps to develop speech and reading skills by providing users with automated speech recognition and visual feedback. The software is aimed specifically at those with hearing impairments, for whom auditory cues are virtually useless, but a side benefit is the development of memory and concentration skills.

According to Rachel Bress, a speech and language pathologist in Pennsylvania, “People who stutter are always trying hard to control their speech whether it is by slowing down, taking breaths before each word, compensating by using other words, etc.”

One possible solution is a voice recognition program that provides the user with delayed auditory feedback. Users speak into a microphone, and a fraction of a second later hear their voice. Short delays can reduce stuttering by as much as 70 percent, while longer delays produce greater fluency. One company, Artefactsoft (www.artefactsoft.com), has developed two software programs, one for handheld devices and another for desktop/laptop computers.

Finally, Rupal Patel and Deb Roy, from the University of Toronto’s Department of Speech-Language Pathology (www.slp.utoronto.ca/site4.aspx), believe the future is in teachable software. The researchers are looking into software that can learn from, and adapt to, the abilities of the individual user. The program would be able to recognize a user’s speech patterns—how words are spoken instead of just the words themselves—thereby giving another piece of information the computer can use to better interpret what is being vocalized.

Training voice recognition software isn’t easy, especially for someone with speech difficulties. It takes time and effort. Words and phrases have to be repeated. Mistakes have to be diligently corrected. The frustration level of the user can be high. But the system is patient and private.

Read more:
To read more about adaptive keyboard and computer technology, see Lomak Keyboard Designed for People with Disabilities.

For a list of adaptive technology resources, see Assistive Technology/Adaptive Technology Resources.

Lomak Keyboard Designed for People with Disabilities

2008-05-09T20:05:00Z

People who deal with a range of disabilities often have trouble hooking into the world of cyberspace that long ago became a necessity for dealing with 21st century society. The range of disabilities that make dealing with the standard keyboard, which has essentially remained unchanged since the earliest days of the typewriter, run the gamut from arthritis to people dealing with amputation of their arms. The manufacturers of a revolutionary assistive adaptive technology called the Lomak are hoping to change all that. Lomak stands for Light Operated Mouse and Keyboard.

So what exactly is Lomak and who can it help and how? The Lomak keyboard is specifically designed to meet the needs of those with disabilities that somehow impair their ability to use a standard keyboard and mouse though, in fact, it could very well be modified for use one day by those who simply are not satisfied with the singular experience of attempting to do their work with such a distinctly outdated mechanism.

The Lomak works by virtue of highly sophisticated light sensing technology. The keyboard use is equipped with either a head pointer or a hand pointer. The hand pointer is ideal for anyone with adequate control over their arm, while the head pointer is a masterful breakthrough that allows anyone with even severe motor control difficulties to use the keyboard. Whether using the head or hand pointer, the Lomak operates by sending a light beam from the pointer to the keyboard that then confirms the specific keyboard or mouse function. The user then highlights the desired key or the mouse function.

The Lomak keyboard can be adapted depending upon the severity of the user's disability. Computer users who have better control over their arms and hands position the Lomak flat so that the keyboard slides into a wrist rest. For those unable to control their arms and hands, such as quadriplegics, the head pointer is fastened around the head with a band and both the keyboard and computer are placed upright. Using the head, the person with a disability controls the pointer and it has been suggested that eventually the rate of typing could exceed 25 words per minute.

The Lomak Light Operated Mouse and Keyboard as an assistive adapted equipment technology that is unlike anything else on the market today and represents a breakthrough that may very quickly become the standard as it opens the door for many people who have had trouble finding a route to the information superhighway in the past. While the $1,500 price may present a case of sticker shock at first, there is no denying that the potential benefits will more than make up that initial investment.Check out the Lomak at their Web site by clicking here.

New ATV Models are Accessible For All Abilities

2008-05-09T17:42:00Z

Many people with a disability do fight "attitudinal barriers" whether they are placed there by others or themselves. Those people who have chosen life with an all-terrain vehicle have leapt across the divide!

There are many concepts of what an all-terrain vehicle is.

The all-terrain vehicle may be considered a heavily powered wheelchair or a scooter or a "caddy." These vehicles will give you private travel capabilities for just you. True, they do limit your exploration to a degree, but the upside is that their cost is only around $3,500.

While looking for that nice tame wheelchair or a dune buggy or a jeep or some other four-wheel drive all-terrain vehicle that is accessible, the future looks to belong to a vehicle called the Superfourin.

This GPS-enabled single-seat wheelchair will soon offer individuals with a disability the ability to investigate most terrains with its on-board computer and four-wheel drive.

This amazing Superfourin Chair, as it is referred to, has everything needed to maintain contact with a command center, which in turn is monitoring vehicle maintenance as well as operator vital signs. You may find the cost of the Superfourin Chair has not been commercially established but the target market seems to be clubs who can off-road as a group.

Another top unique performer is the Tankchair, which is a single-seat ATV that literally rides on tank tread. It is very balanced. Once again, price may be established individually because of minimum production numbers. Ordering the vehicle is an individually generated event.

Other four-wheel all-terrain vehicles include Jeeps, dune buggies and heavy-duty vans. What is one of them going to cost you? There is no question the type of vehicle you buy is based on what type of off-roading you want to do. However, the van is going to be limited and the dune buggy is going to be rough. That leaves the Jeep, which will probably set you back about $15,000 for starters when set up for a person with a disability.

Challenging a disability by refusing to give up an endeavor you love is highly admirable. You will find the all-terrain vehicles that provide the most freedom and unique qualities are the Tankchair and the Superfourin Chair. Enjoy the ride!

References:
www.ncwd-youth.info/resources.com
www.theinfoshop.com
www.tankchair.com

Two-Gear MAGICWheels May Reduce Shoulder Pain for Wheelchair Users

2008-05-06T16:19:00Z

If you are a manual wheelchair user (MWCU), chances are you’ve had shoulder pain at one point or another. Pushing the chair, transferring yourself into and out of the chair, using your arms to shift your weight—all of these maneuvers add up to an overload on shoulder joints and muscles. A study published in December of 2007 showed a significant overall reduction in shoulder pain after only two weeks of participants using chairs equipped with two-gear wheels.

Although wheelchairs have been around for hundreds of years, there had been little change in design until recently. The goal of today’s technology is to improve function and decrease chronic overuse of muscles and joints. MAGICWheels are designed to do this by providing a two-gear mechanism that assists when going over challenging terrain. The wheels can be attached to the chair that you are already using.

Going up inclines in second gear prevents backslide and theoretically requires less exertion. The wheels turn more easily, but they do have to make two revolutions to go the same distance as one revolution in standard gear. Going downhill is easier because less braking is required (similar to putting a car into a lower gear). The wheels can be clicked back into standard gear for smooth surfaces.

In the 2007 study, 17 full-time MWCUs participated first in a four-week baseline evaluation in which participants used their personal chairs. Following that baseline period, participants used MAGICWheels in place of their regular wheels for five months. The trial ended with switching back to each chair's original wheels and a four-week re-evaluation of shoulder pain and functional ability. Requirements to participate in the study included already-existing shoulder pain and already-established need to navigate hills, ramps, curbs, and uneven terrain on a daily basis.

Pain reduction continued for participants throughout the five-month period of using MAGICWheels, but there was no overall improvement in functional ability. This was attributed to the fact that the subjects picked for this study were of high functional ability to begin with. There was no reduction in perceived pain when the participants had to climb hills with the two-gear wheels. However, this could have been due to the fact that the ascent took longer and actually required more strokes per wheel turn (but less force because there was no backslide).

Some of the participants expressed frustration with the increased amount of time required to climb a hill. The MAGICWheels add about 10 pounds of weight to the chair, but this didn't seem to increase pain for those who had to lift their chairs into their cars. Although many of the participants reported favorable opinions about MAGICWheels, none of them felt able to purchase them because of cost.

The authors of the study felt that MAGICWheels showed a potential for reducing shoulder pain in MWCUs. However, this study was limited by lack of a control group, the possibility that involvement in the study itself may have been the reason for improvement in pain, and the fact that the selection process resulted in highly motivated participants. Four people did not complete the study for various reasons, but only one dropped out because of disliking the wheels.

For further information, refer to: "Effect of 2-Speed Geared Manual Wheelchair Propulsion on Shoulder Pain and Function;" Finley, M PhD PT; Rodgers, M PhD PT; Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, December 2007, Volume 88.